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By: Aldric Cristoval C. Reyes
 Puzzles, riddles and math tricks, are some of my favorite things to do. But I love Game Boy, computer games, card games and watching cartoon shows too. My life in math started when my teacher said I that I am good in this subject. I was then trained to join the MTAP competition in grade I. Come to think of it. That was four years ago. Along the way, I learned so many things, not only counting numbers, but also how to compete with an open mind. I experienced the joy of winning and the pain of losing. I joined MTG when I was in grade 4. At first I was reluctant. In my mind, I said, "Saturday training! Give up playtime and sleep time? NO WAY!!!" But then I have to set a goal. I want to see what's in store for me in the Math World. I had to train, learn more and sharpen my skill. So...I’m in. When you join math competitions, don't expect to always win. Sometimes you learn more when you lose. We are always told that it's not winning that matters most, for there's more to it. Here, you will encounter so many things, the mixed feelings of nervousness, excitement, joy, depression and even anger, but you have to learn how to handle it. In math competitions, it's not just solving numbers. Here we learn how to inculcate creativity, logic and even common sense. We learn what reality is and we also learn that our rival teams can be our friends. Of course everybody wants to win, but the most important of all is to lose gracefully and learn from our mistakes. Who says there is no fun in math? Who says MTG is all study and no play? I assure you, we have a generous share of playtime and fun too. Don't be discouraged by the long training hours. Being good in math had its advantages and bonuses. 1) You can pass your math test in flying colors without studying your lesson. 2) You have good excuses to travel to different places (hehe). 3) You can meet plenty of people and have lots of friends. 4) With different coaches, you can gather different ideas and methods in solving math problems. And 5) each training and competition is always a new adventure and experience. Now, don't you think that's really great? Aldric is a Grade 5 student from Chiang Kai Shek College. He has represented the country in three international mathematics competitions, including the 2nd International Science and Mathematics Olypiad for Primary Schools, where he won a silver medal. |
